IMEI at a Glance

  • IMEI is a unique identifier assigned to the cellular modem inside an IoT device, allowing networks to recognize the hardware itself.
  • In IoT deployments, IMEI can help operators identify devices, enhance security, and prevent SIM misuse.
  • Features like Soracom’s IMEI Lock add an extra layer of protection by blocking new network sessions when the device-reported IMEI does not match an allowed IMEI.

What is an IMEI?

The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a globally unique, 15-digit number assigned to every cellular-enabled device. Unlike identifiers stored on the SIM card, the IMEI is tied directly to the modem hardware inside the device and is used by mobile networks to identify the equipment attempting to connect.

In IoT deployments—where devices such as payment terminals, sensors, gateways, and trackers may operate unattended for long periods—the IMEI plays an important role in device identity, security, and fleet management. It allows operators to distinguish one physical device from another, even if SIM cards are moved or replaced.

The Role of IMEI in IoT Deployments

IMEI is especially important in IoT because connectivity is often decoupled from end-user interaction. Devices may be deployed in the field, installed in public or semi-public locations, or managed remotely at scale.

In these scenarios, IMEI helps enable:

  • Device-level identification independent of the SIM
  • Fraud and misuse detection, such as unauthorized SIM relocation
  • Fleet visibility, allowing operators to associate connectivity usage with specific hardware
  • Security controls, when paired with SIM and network management tools

IMEI does not grant network access on its own, but it can be used as an input for policies governing which device a SIM is allowed to operate in.

IMEI vs Other Cellular Identifiers

IMEI works alongside other identifiers commonly used in IoT:

  • ICCID (Integrated Circuit Card Identifier): Identifies the SIM card hardware.
  • IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity): Identifies the subscriber and is used for network authentication and billing.
  • MSISDN: A phone-number identifier used for voice and SMS services.

In simple terms:

  • IMEI = device hardware
  • ICCID = SIM card
  • IMSI = subscriber identity

Understanding how these identifiers interact is key to building secure, scalable IoT architectures.

Why IMEI Matters for IoT Security

In real-world IoT deployments, SIM misuse can quickly become a costly and risky problem. If a SIM card is removed from its intended device and placed into another piece of hardware—such as a smartphone or hotspot—it can lead to unexpected data usage, security exposure, and billing overruns.

This risk is particularly high for devices deployed in accessible locations, including payment terminals, kiosks, industrial equipment, and shared facilities.

By tracking and enforcing IMEI associations, operators can ensure that SIMs behave as intended and remain bound to their approved devices.

Soracom IMEI Lock: Protecting IoT Deployments

Soracom offers an IMEI Lock feature that allows IoT SIMs to be restricted to a specific device IMEI. When enabled, Soracom blocks new data sessions if the device-reported IMEI does not match the configured IMEI Lock value. 

If a SIM is moved to an unauthorized device:

  • Session establishment will be rejected due to an IMEI mismatch 
  • No new data sessions can be established
  • Connectivity can be automatically blocked

IMEI Lock can be managed through the Soracom User Console, Soracom APIs, or automated using the Soracom Event Handler. For example, operators can configure rules that deactivate a SIM if an IMEI mismatch is detected or if excessive data usage occurs.

Importantly, IMEI Lock is not permanent. Administrators can remove or update the lock as devices are replaced, serviced, or redeployed – maintaining flexibility without sacrificing security.

Managing SIM Status Alongside IMEI Controls

IMEI Lock works in tandem with Soracom’s SIM status management capabilities. SIMs can be set to different operational states—such as Active or Standby—allowing teams to:

  • Disable connectivity during planned downtime
  • Automatically suspend SIMs that exceed data thresholds
  • Secure devices when they are not expected to be in use

These controls are especially valuable in regulated or high-risk environments like payment processing, healthcare, and industrial automation.

Why IMEI Control Matters – and How Soracom Helps

For IoT deployments at scale, managing connectivity at both the SIM level and the device level is essential. IMEI provides the hardware identity needed to prevent misuse, while Soracom’s IMEI Lock and SIM management tools turn that identity into actionable security controls.

By combining global IoT connectivity with features like IMEI Lock, API-driven automation, event-based controls, and centralized SIM management, Soracom helps organizations deploy IoT solutions that are not only scalable—but secure by design.

This approach allows teams to focus on delivering business value, confident that their devices, data, and connectivity are protected.